Zitti e Buoni by Måneskin — Verse 1

Loro non sanno

They don't know

The phrase 'loro non sanno' uses 'loro' which is the subject pronoun for 'they.' The verb 'sanno' comes from 'sapere,' meaning 'to know.'

This phrase reflects the Italian tendency to highlight knowledge or the lack thereof, which is crucial in a society where knowledge and expertise are highly valued.

Di che parlo

What I'm talking about

'Di che parlo' uses 'di,' meaning 'about,' showing how Italians often combine prepositions with pronouns.

Italians are known for their expressive communication style, often emphasizing clarity in what they express.

Loro non sanno di che parlo

They don't know what I'm talking about

Watch how 'di che' precedes the verb 'parlo' to link the preposition directly to the topic.

Reflects Italian frustration when not understood, a relatable aspect in their very social culture.

Vestiti sporchi

Dirty clothes

'Vestiti' means 'clothes' and is plural, so its adjective 'sporchi' (dirty) must also be plural.

Italy is famous for fashion; noting disheveled clothing could reflect rebellion or non-conformity.

Fra', di fango

Bro', with mud

'Fra’' is short for 'fratello,' meaning 'brother,'—a casual term of endearment among friends.

Informality in language signifies camaraderie, a common cultural feature among Italian youth.

Vestiti sporchi, fra', di fango

Dirty clothes, bro, of mud

Pay attention to how 'di fango' describes the type of dirt, following Italian descriptive order.

Represents a gritty, urban lifestyle contrasting with traditional Italian elegance.

Giallo di siga'

Yellow of cigarette

'Siga’' is slang for 'sigaretta,' meaning cigarette. Ellipsis happens often for brevity.

The color often relates to nicotine stains; Italy’s cafe culture includes prevalent smoking.

Fra le dita

Between the fingers

'Fra' indicates position, commonly used as 'between' or 'among.'

Gestures are important in Italy; holding a cigarette between fingers is iconic imagery.

Giallo di siga' fra le dita

Cigarette yellow between the fingers

Notice the descriptive order placing color before the object in Italian.

Highlights cultural imagery often associated with a rebellious or pensive mood.